In a message dated 8/26/02 10:53:03 PM, JOE65@AOL.COM writes:

> Anybody who knows care to make a few comments about the world of digital
> cameras?
>
Digital cameras (I have a bunch) come in a wide arrange of sizes and
features. If you go cutting edge, you'll pay the (extra) price. However, last
years models can be had at bargain prices. www.dcresource is a good place for
reviews (they have links to other review places). Their focus >IS< towards
more professional use, but they'll also get you an education as to what the
options are (and what will matter to you.)

With all that said...some of the best quality of images for a reasonable
price are from some of the older Fuji cameras. Don't go top of the line with
them though. I've heard good things about the image quality on Nikons, but
the ergonomics of their cameras turned me off. Try a bunch at a local super
store (Best Buy, Microcenter, or equivalent.) Figure out what YOU like.

Storage media. There are 4 types. The common ones are Smartmedia, and
CompactFlash. Sony has their memory stick and a new variant has appeared
recently. If you choose a camera with CompactFlash, check to see if the IBM
microdrive will work with it. I love being able to have 1 gig of storage for
pictures (making my batteries the feature that is most likely to run out.)

Batteries. Some cameras have propietary ones. Others use AAs or AAAs.
Rechargable is nice, but they won't last as long as Lithium batteries
(available in Eveready AAs).

Finally transferring the images to your desktop computer. Some folks are
happy with the serial/usb/firewire cables supplied with the camera. I prefer
to use an adapter that is (semi) permanently attached to my desktop. Added
cost, but I find it more convienent.

And now to return to Vanagon content. Gotta put up some pictures of my
beasties one of these days.